The Bedford Hotel
The Bedford Hotel, 1 Plymouth Road, Tavistock, PL19 8BB
Member Overview
Historic Hotel, Award‑Winning Dining and the Birthplace of the Devon Cream Tea
The Bedford Hotel is an iconic historic hotel, restaurant and bar located in the heart of Tavistock, an award‑winning market town on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. Once a retreat of the Dukes of Bedford, the hotel stands on the site of Tavistock Abbey and is famously recognised as the birthplace of the Devon Cream Tea.
A Landmark of Tavistock
With a history stretching back centuries, The Bedford Hotel has long been a focal point of Tavistock life. The building blends historic character and antiques with modern comfort, creating a welcoming space equally popular with locals and visitors. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Dartmoor, the Tamar Valley AONB and Tavistock’s independent shops, pannier market and riverside walks.
Award‑Winning Restaurant & Bar
Food is at the heart of The Bedford Hotel. The hotel’s Woburn Restaurant and Bar have earned a strong reputation for quality, consistency and a commitment to Devon produce.
Menus focus on:
- Local, seasonal ingredients sourced from Devon farmers, fishers and producers
- British classics alongside contemporary dishes
- Fresh fish, locally sourced meats, game and vegetarian options
The Woburn Restaurant offers a more formal dining experience, while the bar and lounges provide relaxed spaces for lunches, suppers and light bites.
The Bedford Hotel has received multiple accolades recognising both its hospitality and food standards, including:
- 2 AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence
- Taste of the West Gold Awards for South West Hotel and Restaurant
- Food Drink Devon Gold Award
These awards celebrate the hotel’s strong emphasis on provenance, flavour and professional service.
Home of the Devon Cream Tea
As the acknowledged birthplace of the Devon Cream Tea, The Bedford Hotel is a destination in its own right for afternoon tea. Guests can enjoy: Traditional cream teas with homemade scones, local strawberry jam and Devon clotted cream
- Full afternoon tea experiences with sandwiches, cakes and pastries. Cream teas are served daily and remain a cornerstone of The Bedford’s food identity.
Comfortable Accommodation
The hotel offers 31 individually styled bedrooms, including Classic and Premier rooms, Four poster rooms with spa baths
- Dog‑friendly rooms, Accessible ground‑floor options, Rooms combine traditional charm with contemporary amenities, making the hotel suitable for romantic breaks, walkers, families and business travellers.
Gardens, Events & Sustainability
Guests can enjoy: A charming front garden and a secluded walled garden, ideal for drinks or relaxation in warmer months
- Elegant spaces for weddings, private dining, meetings and celebrations. Electric vehicle charging facilities that support sustainable travel. Free parking. The hotel continues to evolve while retaining its historic character and strong connection to the place.
Hotels & Restaurants | Award‑Winning Dining | Local Produce Champions | Food Tourism | Dartmoor | The Bedford Hotel | Tavistock restaurant | Devon cream tea birthplace | Dartmoor hotel dining | Taste of the West hotel
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The Bedford Hotel
